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breaking news

T.J. McDonald fitting Miami Dolphins plans short- and long-term

T.J. McDonald (22) looks like he’ll be a huge help to the Dolphins when he joins them mid-season. (Allen Eyestone/The Post)

PHILADELPHIA–The Dolphins have found a quality safety in T.J. McDonald, and despite him having to miss the first eight games because of an NFL suspension, he might be a big part of their future plans.

McDonald, 26, is with Miami on a one-year deal and is already making a big impression. The idea of pairing Reshad Jones (6-foot-1, 223 pounds) and McDonald (6-2, 223) in the back of the secondary is one reason Adam Gase is optimistic about his defense this season.

“That’s a big man roaming around at free safety,” Gase said. “He’ll come downhill and reacts fast, and he has no regard for his body. He’s got good ball skills. He knows what to do. With him back there, guys know that he’s roaming around.”

McDonald played somewhat of a safety-linebacker hybrid role for the Rams last year, so he comes in with a solid run-stopping foundation, which is something the Dolphins need. Pro Football Focus rated him the No. 58 safety in the league last year.

Nate Allen is in line to start with Jones as of now, but it seems inevitable that McDonald will take over as the starter once he’s cleared to return. If his season goes well, there should be mutual interest in him staying with the Dolphins, who met with him fully knowing he’d be suspended.

Part of McDonald’s agreement to join Miami was, in his words, “no wiggle room” in any aspect of his performance or off-field activities. So far, he’s held up his end of that deal.

“The biggest conversation we had was I just told him to do right,” Gase said. “Just do what you’re supposed to do, be where you’re supposed to be and you’ll be in good shape. When you get on the field, that’s the easy part for you.

“He’s done everything that we’ve needed him to do. He’s been a guy that’s come in here and has fit in well with our locker room. I’ve really enjoyed being around him… Getting him here and being able to do whatever we can to help him get better, it’s been a good experience for us.”